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Residents of Makurdi, the Benue State capital, have raised serious concerns over the alleged misconduct of forest guards and vigilante security operatives who are reportedly abandoning their primary duties to harass motorists and commuters on the roads.
In a widely shared post, Ukan Kurugh highlighted complaints received about these security personnel, particularly those operating around Inikpi Street before Kucha Junction. According to the reports, the operatives, who are supposed to be protecting farmlands and farmers in the bush, have instead taken to stopping motorcyclists (especially TVS riders and young boys), conducting arbitrary searches, and causing unnecessary traffic congestion and tension.
Several commenters echoed similar sentiments. One user noted that the same issue is happening in Gboko, where volunteer guards allegedly focus on searching bikes and harassing riders rather than fulfilling their protective roles. Others accused the guards of “misbehaving” beside the Customary Court and prioritizing quick money over their assigned responsibilities of safeguarding lives and properties.
A concerned resident lamented that security work has been turned into a means of harassment and profiling of innocent people instead of professional service. Many are calling on the relevant authorities to rein in these operatives and ensure they carry out their duties with professionalism.
The growing public frustration suggests that the actions of these forest guards and vigilantes are creating fear and inconvenience for ordinary citizens, particularly commercial motorcyclists who depend on the roads for their daily livelihood.
As complaints continue to mount on social media, there are increasing calls for the Benue State Government and security agencies to investigate these allegations and redirect the operatives to their core mandate of protecting farmlands and rural communities from threats such as banditry and farmer-herder clashes.
Further updates are expected as residents await official response to the reported misconduct.
